Good Journalism Matters, And This Capsule Collection Proves It (Win!)

Hayley Elsaesser’s newest capsule collection has launched for National Newspaper Week (October 4th to 10th, 2020) and, for us, it’s personal. This new range—a T-shirt, mask and tote emblazoned with the words “news” and “truth” in various languages spoken across Canada, as well as Hayley’s iconic mouthy print—is all about empowering Canadians to show their support for newspapers and Canadian news media. All proceeds from the sales of the Champion the Truth pieces will be donated to Canadian Journalists for Free Expression. We chatted with Hayley about her passion in supporting Canadian news media—and speaking her truth. —Vita Daily

Hi Hayley! Please tell us a bit about yourself to start!

Hi! I’m a Canadian fashion designer known for my rebellious streak. If you’ve seen my work, you know I am not afraid of big, bold and bright colours, contrasting patterns or a tongue-in-cheek design. I think that fashion should be inclusive, body positive, and I love that I can use my platforms to bring awareness to causes I am passionate about—such as partnering with News Media Canada to support Canadian newspapers and news media.

Tell us more about this special release, please! What pieces are included? What inspired you in creating this range?

The Champion the Truth collection is more than a limited-edition newspaper-inspired capsule collection; it’s a celebration of Canadian newspapers and news media. Now more than ever, their work deserves to be honoured and celebrated and launching this collection during National Newspaper Week felt like the perfect way for me to do that. This collection features a T-shirt, tote bag and mask emblazoned with the words “news” and “truth” in various languages spoken across Canada, and features my iconic mouthy print. This design really highlights the strength of Canada’s diversity, and reflects on the importance of newspapers as an essential service providing credible, factual reporting and a voice for local communities across the country.

It’s obvious to us here at VITA but why, in your opinion, is it so important for Canadians to show their support for newspapers and Canadian news media?

This year especially, I think we can all agree that newspapers have played and continue to play such a critical role in providing us with truthful, credible information as we navigate a global pandemic. Local newspapers deliver vital information to Canadians every day and connect communities from coast-to coast-to coast. This collection is really a thank you to newspapers, Canadian journalism and a reflection on the essential service newspapers provide. It is very concerning to me that we currently live in a climate where fake news is a real problem, we need more credible factual journalism to provide Canadians with the information they need.

That said, how will your special collection benefit Canadian Journalists for Free Expression?

All proceeds from the sales of the Champion the Truth capsule collection will be donated to Canadian Journalists for Free Expression.

We hear you have a personal connection to print media, via your grandfather. Can you tell us a bit about him?

Newspapers have always held a special place in my heart. My Opa was actually the owner and publisher of a local community newspaper in British Columbia for many years, so I know first-hand the immense impact that newspapers can have on a community. It was something that my Oma (grandma) and dad were also involved in, so it was very much a family affair. For me, this was an amazing example of entrepreneurship and hard work paying off. It was also something to be very proud of when I visited them in Merritt, B.C.

So, what section of the paper do you usually read first?!

I usually go for the entertainment section, as a visual person this usually has the most photos and it’s usually also the easiest to digest first thing in the morning. I also love local news, to keep up with what’s happening in my community.

hayleyelsaesser.com

Win! A Hayley Elsaesser Champion the Truth Tee, Tote And Mask!

We have a winner! Congratulations Karlene S. of Victoria. B.C., who will receive a Hayley Elsaesser Champion the Truth Tee, Tote And Mask!